1961 Abarth 1300 vs. 1981 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1981 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Abarth 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Abarth 1300 would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Abarth 1300 (137 HP @ 7600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. (110 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Abarth 1300 should accelerate faster than 1981 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 975 kg more than 1961 Abarth 1300.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. 1981 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1961 Abarth 1300 has manual transmission. 1961 Abarth 1300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Abarth 1300 | 1981 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Abarth | Pontiac |
| Model | 1300 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1280 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 630 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3560 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2100 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 79 L |
